Laguna Beach Vacations

It certainly won't be the last time for fun filled Laguna Beach vacations.  I had never been there even though we are so close.  We headed out from San Diego on a very warm September Thursday morning, destined for four days of fun and sun in Laguna and Newport Beach.

Sun goes down on a warm and beautiful September day in Laguna BeachLaguna Beach Sunset

Newport Beach and Laguna Beach are located right next to each other and are just north of San Diego and south of Los Angeles.  A lightly traveled toll road and set of rolling hills seals off these communities from the remainder of Southern California.  You would never know that two major U.S. cities were only minutes away. 




Where to Stay

Ninety miles, and a few hours later, we arrive at the Marriott Newport Coast Villas and Spa.  This is a very large, beautiful and impressive collection of one, two and three bedroom terraced suites nestled in the hills overlooking the Pacific.

Relax at the Marriott Newport Beach with pool views overlooking the Pacific OceanMarriott Newport Beach

This is probably the best property that I have visited in terms and things to do for the entire family.  Add in the landscape, beautiful villas and ocean that is just a short walk away, make this resort one of my all time favorites.

There are several large fire pits located throughout the Marriott propertyOne of several firepits
Shoot some hoops on this great basketball courtBasketball Court
Volleyball is just one of several activities that the Marriott Newport Beach has to offer its guestVolleyball
There are 5 nice pools scattered about the Marriott Newport BeachOne of five pools
Prepare that favorite meal at one of several outdoor grills while enjoying views of the Pacific OceanBarbeque overlooking Pacific
Play ping pong and foosball next to the main poolOutdoor Games

The Wedge

First stop was a trip to Newport Beach and the famous Wedge.  The harbor jetty meets the beach at a very odd angle and creates huge waves that come out of nowhere.  Waves of 20 to 30 feet are not uncommon.

Known for 20-30 foot waves, the wedge is a famous boogie and body boarding spotThe Wedge at Newport Beach

This is a very popular spot not only for sunbathing on a large beach, with plenty of room for all activities, but for body surfing.  This is a great place to sit at the edge of the sand, where the beach meets the jetty, and watch body surfers take on the huge waves.

The Wedge Live HD Surf Cam. Check out more Surf Cams at Surfline.com

Laguna Beach

About 7-8 miles south of Newport Beach is Laguna Beach.  This is a great town to roam the hilly streets of the city and have lunch or dinner perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific.  This is one of the best sunset dinner locations on the west coast with a very nice selection of great restaurants to choose from.

Enjoy a stroll along Laguna Beach's shopping area.Laguna Beach Shops
Laguna Beach looking towards the southLaguna Beach Walk
Restaurants are perched above on the cliffs with a great view ovetrlooking the ocean and sunsetDinner Sunset on the Patio

Laguna Beach is a great place for a sunset walk.

Laguna Beach is the perfect place for a late afternoon sunset walkSun goes down in Laguna Beach

Best Restaurants

We visited some great restaurants with tasty food and awesome views.  Read more....

We also made several stops at a great chocolate shop.  One of my favorites was the extra large dark chocolate peanut butter cup

Great selection of tasty chocolates at Laguna Beach's La RueLa Rue Chocolate
Large cup with dark chocolate with peanut butterLa Rue Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup

And....if that wasn't enough, topped it off with a trip to the gelato shop.

Visited Gelato Paradiso three times during our four day stay !The Best Gelato Selections
Icy cold and yummy gelato from Gelato ParadisoGelato

The Best Time for Laguna Beach Vacations

Laguna Beach vacations are great anytime of the year but there are better months to visit, than others.  Our weather page provides details on the best weather seasons, average rainfall amounts, real time satellite map, current conditions and five day forecast.